By Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has issued a firm warning to the family heads known as Mogajis and the village heads called Baales across his domain. The monarch made it crystal clear that these title holders must not use their positions to bully or intimidate the very people they are meant to represent – their family members and subjects.
Speaking through the Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief (Senator) Sharafadeen Alli, during the official installation ceremony of nine new Mogajis and two Baales at his palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, the Olubadan emphasized the significant responsibility that comes with these traditional roles. He reminded the newly installed chiefs that they are essentially his representatives within their communities.
The Olubadan stressed that their primary duty is to foster and maintain peace and harmony within their respective areas. He passionately urged them to steer clear of any actions that could damage the esteemed reputation of the traditional institution in the ancient city of Ibadan. His words carried the weight of tradition and a clear expectation of honorable conduct.
“Stay away from anything that could stain the good name of our traditional system,” the Olubadan cautioned directly. He specifically mentioned unacceptable behaviors such as seizing land unjustly, showing disrespect to older members within their families, and, most importantly, oppressing the very family members under their care. His message was a strong call for ethical leadership rooted in service, not self-interest.
The newly installed Mogajis, representing various family compounds across Ibadan, include individuals like Mr. Giwa Adeboye Kamaldeen from Aliiwo Compound, Alhaji Kamorudeen Olalekan Adebimpe of Adebimpe family, and Alhaji Muritala Iyanda Aloba of Aloba family, among others. Similarly, Chief Raimi Ibrahim Edujobi and Mr. Morakinyo Muniru Fagbemi were appointed as the new Baales for their respective villages.
The Olubadan’s clear directives underscore the importance of these traditional leaders in maintaining social order and upholding the values of respect and fairness within Ibadanland. His message serves as a vital reminder that these positions of authority are entrusted upon individuals to serve their communities with integrity and to be guardians of peace, not agents of oppression.
